Help me stop the bounce! 240k miles, RAS and XRAS

[gimmea250swb]

I'm close to handing the keys in given the value of the car. I used it for local drives so bouncing wasn't much of a problem, but I drove it on the interestate and holy moley, you can almost hit the roof. It really doesn't feel safe...

Prior owner installed springs in the rear because the RAS compressor died. It used to easily hit the bump stops on speed bumps until I bought shorter ones - of course that didn't stop the bouncing.

My guess is the XREAS. I haven't checked for leaks and will tomorrow, but there's a chance I won't see any. Is it a closed system or is there a reservoir I can check?

I hate to sink $500 in shocks for a car that's worth $1000 and be wrong. Advice much appreciated!

 

[Galdarn]

I'm close to handing the keys in given the value of the car. I used it for local drives so bouncing wasn't much of a problem, but I drove it on the interestate and holy moley, you can almost hit the roof. It really doesn't feel safe...

Prior owner installed springs in the rear because the RAS compressor died. It used to easily hit the bump stops on speed bumps until I bought shorter ones - of course that didn't stop the bouncing.

My guess is the XREAS. I haven't checked for leaks and will tomorrow, but there's a chance I won't see any. Is it a closed system or is there a reservoir I can check?

I hate to sink $500 in shocks for a car that's worth $1000 and be wrong. Advice much appreciated!

Have you checked your tires for balance? Badly out of balance or defective tires can cause bouncing on the highway. If it has XREAS consider a delete and install regular shocks. There are some guides on Youtube and maybe some here as well.
Good luck!

 

[xtremewlr]

[MENTION=114846]Bluesky 07[/MENTION] has a great write-up on replacing the XREAS with 2005-2023 Tacoma Bilstien components that you can find via Craigslist, FB Marketplace or OfferUp for under $300 usually.

https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3195449-post2.html

Delete the XREAS completely and use standard 2005-2023 Tacoma shocks and springs in the front. Use standard 4Runner (non-XREAS) rear shocks. Completely remove all XREAS components as they are no longer used.

If the previous owner already eliminated the RAS, then don't worry about it unless they did it poorly. MetalTech has great options to properly eliminate the RAS on the 4Runner, with various options if you don't need the full kit - Lexus GX470 Rear Coil Conversion Kit - Stage 3 | Metal Tech 4x4

 

[AuSeeker]

If it's bouncing the shocks are shot, replaced them with regular shocks and you will be happy.

That being said you didn't state what year it is. engine V8 or V6 and mileage, irregardless if it's a 4th Gen T4R unless it's otherwise in very bad condition or a very badly rusted frame (is it or are you from the "rust/snow belt") it's worth way more than $1000, have you checked prices lately??

 

[MikeinNH67]

Even rusted 4runners are way more than a grand here. If you want to go cheap though, put newer used takeoffs you can buy from Ebay, CL or Marketplace from someone who lifted their Gen5. My front assemblies were 6 months old when I installed them, what a difference in ride. Direct fit except for removing a bit of metal on the lower eyelet.